Question

Write the etiology of preterm labour.

Hint:

Infections, multiple gestation, and previous preterm birth are the most common causes of preterm labor.

Answer 1

Step 1: Etiology of Preterm Labour.
Preterm labor is defined as the onset of labor before 37 weeks of gestation. It can result from a variety of maternal, fetal, and placental factors. The main causes of preterm labor include:
(1) Infections:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis, chorioamnionitis, and systemic infections can trigger preterm labor through the release of inflammatory mediators.
(2) Uterine Abnormalities:
- Uterine fibroids, cervical insufficiency, incompetent cervix, or polyhydramnios (excess amniotic flui can increase the risk of preterm labor by causing uterine overstretching or cervical dilation.
(3) Multiple Gestation:
- Twins, triplets, or other multiple pregnancies have a higher risk of preterm labor due to increased uterine size and stretch.
(4) Maternal Health Conditions:
- Hypertension (chronic or pregnancy-induce, diabetes, obesity, and kidney disease increase the risk of preterm birth.
(5) Previous Preterm Birth:
- Women with a history of previous preterm births have an increased risk of recurrent preterm labor in subsequent pregnancies.
(6) Trauma or Injury:
- Physical trauma (e.g., accidents or falls) or abdominal trauma can cause preterm labor.
(7) Psychosocial Factors:
- Stress, domestic violence, low socioeconomic status, and lack of prenatal care have been linked to a higher risk of preterm labor.
(8) Placental Abnormalities:
- Conditions like placental abruption (premature separation of the placent can induce preterm labor.
(9) Other Factors:
- Advanced maternal age, teenage pregnancy, poor nutrition, substance abuse (e.g., smoking, alcohol, and drugs), and stress can increase the risk of preterm birth.